Finding off‑campus housing is an exciting milestone as students enter into a new phase of independence and responsibility. That also means it’s a decision that deserves careful research. Beyond monthly rent, parents should take time to evaluate safety features, lease terms, policies, amenities, and overall support. Asking the right questions up front can help avoid surprises later and ensure your student is set up for success academically and socially. Our student apartment tour checklist for parents can help you focus on the most important things before signing a lease in Statesboro, GA.
1. Safety and Security Should Be a Top Priority
Apartment safety for college students is often the first concern parents have when considering off‑campus housing. A well-maintained community with features and practices designed to support resident safety can provide additional peace of mind. When touring or researching a property, look for:
- Working locks on all exterior doors and bedrooms
- Well‑lit walkways and common areas
- Surveillance cameras in key locations
- On-site property management and staff presence
2. Understand the Lease Before Signing
This is high on our student apartment tour checklist because a lease is a legally binding agreement. It’s critical to understand every detail before signing. Parents and students should review:
- The length of the lease term
- What utilities or services are included
- Required deposits and administrative fees
- Which fees or deposits are refundable at move‑out
Our leases are student-focused to make expectations clear from day one. Knowing exactly what’s included and what happens at the end of the lease or if a roommate moves out helps families plan and avoid misunderstandings.
3. Monthly Rent: What’s Included and What’s Not?
Budgeting is much easier when there are no surprises. Some off‑campus housing options advertise a base rent but add unexpected utility or amenity fees later. Before committing, confirm:
- Which utilities are included in the rent
- Whether internet and Wi‑Fi are provided
- Access to amenities like pools, fitness centers, or study spaces
You can budget confidently at Cottage Row with our clear price list. Property‑wide Wi‑Fi and community amenities are included in the rent. Utilities are not because we believe residents should only have to pay for what they use instead of a lump sum added to their rent.
4. Evaluate Bedroom Privacy and Living Spaces
College life is busy, and students need to balance independence and community. Private bedrooms and well‑designed shared spaces play a major role in daily comfort and academic success. When doing your student housing inspections, look for:
- Private bedrooms for personal space and privacy
- Adequate bathrooms for stress‑free mornings
- Comfortable common areas for studying or relaxing
Cottage Row’s cottage‑style living allows students to enjoy personal privacy and benefit from shared living areas for group studying or downtime with friends.
5. Review Community Amenities That Support Student Success
Amenities can greatly affect a student’s quality of life. When reviewing a community, look for amenities that promote wellness and academic success. At Cottage Row, residents enjoy:
- Two resort-style swimming pools for fun and relaxation
- A fitness center to support healthy routines
- Tech‑ready collaborative spaces for group projects
- A game room and movie theater for downtime
- Sand volleyball courts for outdoor recreation
- A study lounge for academic work
- Property‑wide Wi‑Fi
- Weekly social events that help students build community
These amenities help create a balanced lifestyle where students can prosper both inside and outside the classroom.
6. Check Transportation Options and Location Convenience
Location plays a big role in daily convenience. Parents should consider proximity to campus, access to public transportation, and availability of shuttle services. For example, Cottage Row is located just two miles from Georgia Southern University, with a shuttle service running approximately every 30 minutes. This makes getting to class, campus events, or study sessions convenient, even for students without a car.
7. Ask About Maintenance, Management, and Resident Support
Even the best communities need occasional maintenance. When touring student apartments in Statesboro, GA, look closely to see if the property is well-maintained and note whether faucets are dripping and any other signs of neglect. Knowing who manages the property and how issues are handled is important. Before signing, ask:
- Is there on-site property management?
- How are maintenance requests submitted and handled?
- Is there resident support available for any concerns?
Our professional management team is located on the property, and the office is open six days a week to ensure maintenance needs are dealt with promptly. Students should be able to focus on school, not apartment issues.
Why Cottage Row Checks All the Boxes
When scheduling off-campus apartment tours near GSU, add Cottage Row to your list. Contact our office to learn more about our options. We’re a community that supports students and parents with transparent leasing and student-focused amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of Security Surveillance Does Cottage Row Have?
Cottage Row features surveillance cameras in common areas around the property, along with an on-site courtesy officer available to assist as needed after office hours. These features are intended to support resident safety and provide additional peace of mind.
What Are the Hours of the Management Office?
Management office hours are 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday, and 11:00 am – 5:00 pm on Saturday.
Are All Cottages Furnished?
No. Furniture is available as an optional package that residents can add for an additional cost.
What’s the Benefit of Individual Leasing?
With individual leasing, students are only responsible for their own bedroom and their share of the common spaces. Rent does not change if a roommate moves out or if a resident lives alone in a unit.